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| MRI – What is it? |
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Mercy Radiology has installed New Zealand’s very first wide bore 3Tesla Magnetic Resonance (MRI) Scanner. The latest technology incorporated in this scanner provides greater diagnostic capability and increased space and comfort not previously available.
- It has the biggest inner diameter, 70cms (over 2 feet) and a shorter length than any other MRI scanner. This minimizes feelings of claustrophobia and need for sedatives and larger patients (up to 250kg) can be scanned with ease and comfort.
- The scanner table can lower to within 57cm from the floor making it easily accessible to everyone especially children and the elderly.
- Noise levels are reduced by up to 90% with music delivered during all examinations.
What is an MRI scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging produces detailed cross sectional images of the body without the use of X-Rays.
MRI combines a strong magnet field, radio waves and a computer to convert information from the body into gray scale images. Each examination produces 50 – 200 single images interpreted by the Radiologist and a report sent to your referring Specialist.
Risks?
Many studies have been performed on the biological impact of MRI showing no harmful effects. At present MRI is not indicated for use in early pregnancy.
However, due to the strong magnetic field of the scanner, some patients may not be able to have an MRI examination. These include patients with:
- cardiac pacemakers,
- cochlear implants,
- metal fragments in the eye
- metal clips on blood vessels in the brain
Orthopaedic implants such as joint replacements and screws are safe as well as abdominal surgery clips and fillings in your teeth.
Please call us directly if you have any concerns.
Preparing for your MRI Scan
Please contact us for an appointment.
The receptionist will discuss your appointment time, our location and requirements if ACC are funding your examination and information about how to arrange “prior approval” from your medical insurance company.
You will be advised by the receptionist when making your appointment whether you require any special preparation. This may include a period without food and or the need for an injection of contrast medium.
If for any reason you can not keep your appointment we would appreciate you letting us know as soon as possible.
Appointments
On arrival you will be asked to complete a safety checklist to verify you are safe to undergo a MRI scan. All patients are changed into a gown and asked to remove all metal including jewellery, watches, credit cards, hair clips, cell phones, keys and coins.
All clothing and items will be secured in a locker.
The MRI scanner is a large doughnut shaped magnet, open at either end similar to a CT scanner. You will be positioned on the table by a Radiographer who will endeavor to make you as comfortable as possible. It is important to remain still during the examination approximately 20- 45 minutes. The MRI scanner makes a loud tapping noise while scanning; you are able to listen to music so bring in your favourite CD or we can provide you with earplugs.
The Radiographer is able to talk to you via a two way intercom through out the examination and you are given a bell if you require contacting the Radiographer at any time.
Your Results
On completion of your examination you will be given a CD with your images to be stored in a safe place with your other medical information.
You may eat and drink normally.
The Radiologist will interpret the images and a report / images will be sent to your referring Specialist
If you have any further questions about your MRI scan please contact us:
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Free phone:
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0800 497 297 |
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DDI: |
09 623 5858 |
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09 630 3324 |
| Fax: |
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09 630 9127 |
Our staff will be pleased to help.
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